Russia Eyes Mass Production of Auto Components by 2035 Under Import Substitution Policy
Russia plans to accelerate domestic production of auto parts that are currently in short supply as part of its import substitution strategy. The long term goal is to build a broad industrial base that can sustain the automotive sector with homegrown components and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers by 2035.
A document prepared by the Ministry of Industry and Trade outlines a program to invest 2.7 trillion rubles in research and development as well as the organization of automotive component production. The plan also covers the establishment of production for selected household and automotive parts through 2035, aiming to create a self-sufficient ecosystem for critical supply chains.
To gauge public sentiment, a survey was conducted on a prominent website to learn how everyday drivers view this government initiative. The results show a split in opinion and a window into the expectations consumers hold about the path from idea to execution.
Fifty two percent of respondents reacted positively, with many expressing a belief that a clear objective can drive progress and that determination will lead to results. A portion of respondents felt that effort alone could push outcomes forward even if past attempts did not succeed.
Meanwhile, nineteen percent questioned whether Russian engineers and designers possess sufficient expertise to deliver on the ambitious production targets. Another twenty nine percent asked why such a plan was not tried sooner if it seemed feasible now.
Expert perspective
Maxim Kadakov, editor in chief of the automotive publication Behind the Wheel, weighs the strategic questions around quality and cost. He emphasizes that the potential benefits depend on the scale and application of new components. When a technology such as anti lock braking systems is produced for both domestic use and export markets, the economics must justify the unit cost and the overall value of the product. Kadakov notes that it is possible to manufacture components for national needs while maintaining competitive pricing, but this often involves tradeoffs in quality, reliability, and long term affordability.
He recalls the experience from the late Soviet period when airbags were developed domestically, yet mass production challenges remained. The real question, Kadakov explains, is whether sustainable high volume production with consistent quality can be achieved. Prototypes and initial concepts are one thing, but delivering one million units with uniform performance is another matter entirely.
Past collaboration with foreign firms revealed limits in economic efficiency when localization of complex assemblies is pursued. It became clear that buying ready made devices abroad could be cheaper in many cases, which tempered the drive for full localization at the time.
Today the situation differs, Kadakov observes, but mass producing intricate assemblies such as automatic transmissions still demands mastering the entire supply chain. The knowledge exists in concept, yet execution requires a mature development path, sustained investment, and a track record that persuades car manufacturers to place their trust in a domestic brand. The emergence of successful local producers that can supply both national and international customers would signal the achievement of the stated goals.
He contrasts the Russian tire industry, where key players could compete on a global stage. Domestic tire plants delivered products with the quality and cost balance that attracted foreign buyers. Leading brands around the world relied on compatible technologies and scalable production, enabling meaningful export volumes and price competitiveness. Kadakov argues that sustained quality, innovation, and a competitive environment are essential to secure a strong foothold in both domestic and overseas markets.
In Kadakov’s view, the convergence of quality, volume, technology, and market dynamics will ultimately determine the success of Russia’s 2035 production ambitions. A practical path involves establishing credible, branded domestic producers who can win contracts with carmakers, including foreign brands, by demonstrating reliable performance, consistent supply, and a compelling value proposition.
The historical example from the tire industry demonstrates how a balanced approach to technology, materials, and scale can yield a globally competitive product. When a nation builds the capacity to deliver high quality at scale, it can capture demand beyond its borders and strengthen its industrial base across the supply chain. This is the underlying lesson Kadakov highlights as the country contemplates its next steps toward self sufficiency in automotive components.